Aircraft Finance Corporation: Aviation Financing and Leasing Solutions in Johannesburg

Aircraft Finance Corporation (AFC) operates as a privately owned South African specialist in aircraft financing, offering a comprehensive suite of services to clients across South Africa and beyond. Based in Johannesburg, AFC presents itself as a full-service partner for individuals and organisations looking to acquire, lease or optimise aviation assets. The company emphasises a client‑centred approach, providing end‑to‑end support designed to streamline complex transactions from the initial inquiry through to finalisation and ongoing asset management. AFC holds authorisation as a Financial Services Provider and as a Registered Credit Provider (NCRCP9513), reinforcing its stance as a regulated adviser in the aviation finance market.

With over a decade of experience in aircraft leasing, AFC highlights a track record that includes financing more than R4 billion in assets and completing in excess of 600 aircraft finance and related deals. The leadership team, comprising managing director and directors with extensive banking, aviation and asset finance expertise, positions AFC as a dependable advisor capable of navigating the intricacies of aviation funding, sourcing, negotiations, import/export considerations, legal and tax compliance, as well as structure. A notable feature is the commitment to tailor‑made financing packages in either South African rand (ZAR) or US dollars (USD), while maintaining a single point of contact to ease communication and coordination for clients.

The firm presents a clear value proposition for both first‑time buyers and existing clients. Its services span avionic upgrades, general aircraft finance, and leasing, together with related activities such as pre‑purchase inspections and warranty considerations through its network of industry partners. AFC also emphasises flexibility and growth potential in its deals, aiming to align financing structures with the client’s evolving needs and strategic objectives. In practice, this often means a holistic service model where AFC manages the deal lifecycle and keeps the client informed at every stage, reducing complexity and risk for funders who rely on AFC’s market knowledge and deal assessment capabilities.

Main services offered

• Avionics Finance and Avionics Upgrade Finance
• Aircraft Finance: aviation asset funding, including aircraft and helicopter finance, sale and leaseback, refi nance, engine overhaul finance, and owner finance
• Aircraft Leasing: dry leasing via an associate company, covering jets, turboprops, piston aircraft and helicopters, with a core focus on turboprops

Their aviation leasing activity notes a practical model: dry leasing without crew, insurance, or major maintenance, allowing lessees to operate under their own AOC and manage maintenance and insurance under applicable terms. AFC leverages its industry relationships to source competitive insurance quotations and maintenance options to support lessees in achieving competitive overall costs.

Beyond financing and leasing, AFC positions itself as a facilitator for end‑to‑end aviation transactions. This includes assisting with sourcing, negotiations, regulatory and tax considerations, and import/export logistics. The company asserts its experience and market insight enable it to forecast trends and provide strategic recommendations that maximise the value of aviation assets for clients.

<h2 Typical job types and industries

Clients serviced by AFC include private individuals seeking personal aircraft, entrepreneurs financing diversified-use aircraft for business and private purposes, and operators managing a fleet of aircraft. The scope reflects the breadth of AFC’s asset finance and aviation market knowledge, which is frequently requested by both local and international funders seeking risk assessment and streamlined deal execution.

<h2 How requests usually work

Potential clients can initiate contact via AFC’s Johannesburg offices, with the process designed to deliver a single point of contact throughout the deal. The team coordinates the full lifecycle—from initial assessment and sourcing through to legal, tax, and regulatory compliance, financing, and delivery. AFC also notes an emphasis on flexible financing arrangements to accommodate growth and change in client needs. The organisation maintains a client‑facing structure with administrators assigned to assist throughout the deal, reinforcing a guided and supportive experience.

<h2 Practical tips for customers

• Be prepared with an overview of intended aircraft use (private, business, mixed use) to support a tailored financing package.
• Expect consideration of currency options (ZAR or USD) and how this aligns with cash flow and funding sources.
• Clarify maintenance, insurance, and regulatory responsibilities under a dry lease, especially when operating under an external AOC.
• Gather documentation related to the aircraft’s sourcing, pre‑purchase inspections, and regulatory registrations to streamline negotiations and approvals.
• Engage AFC’s team as a single point of contact to reduce complexity and improve efficiency across the deal lifecycle.

<h2 Local presence and hours

AFC operates from One on Ninth, 9th Street, Melrose Estate, Johannesburg (postcode 2196). Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 17:00. The company serves clients across Gauteng, South Africa and beyond, reflecting its stated willingness to operate throughout Africa and beyond as required by clients.

<h2 Visitor impressions

Customer feedback highlights friendly and helpful staff and offices that convey a professional aviation focus. Reviews consistently reference accessible staff who provide guidance and support through complex transactions, underscoring AFC’s reputation as a knowledgeable and responsive aviation finance partner.